The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reported that global public debt is expected to exceed the 100 trillion dollar mark for the first time this year. The IMF published the October 2024 edition of the Fiscal Monitor titled “Putting a Lid on Public Debt.” Additionally, the IMF released a blog post titled “Global Public Debt Likely Worse Than It Appears.” The write-up highlighted the significant increase in global public debt, stating that it is expected to exceed the 100 trillion dollar mark for the first time this year. The article mentioned that the ratio of global public debt to gross domestic product (GDP) is projected to rise to 93% by the end of this year, approaching 100% by 2030. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the ratio of this debt to GDP was at 90%. The piece included statements such as, “The fiscal outlook for many countries may be worse than expected for three reasons: significant spending pressures, overly optimistic debt forecasts, and substantial amounts of unidentified debt”. Within the report, IMF experts warned of the risks associated with waiting, stating that high levels of debt could trigger negative market reactions and limit financial maneuverability in the face of adverse shocks. The report noted a lack of political willingness to cut spending due to pressures to finance green energy, support an aging population, and increase defense expenditure, leading to a strong upward risk outlook on the debt situation. The IMF anticipates an increase in public debt in the United States, Brazil, France, Italy, United Kingdom, and South Africa.
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